Legal

The timeline for obtaining a Green Card, or U.S. permanent residency, can vary widely depending on the type of application, the applicant’s specific circumstances, and current processing times at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS. While it is difficult to provide an exact duration for every case, understanding the general phases of the process can help set realistic expectations. For family-based Green Cards, the process typically begins with the U.S. citizen or permanent resident filing a Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative to establish the qualifying relationship. The approval of this petition can take several months, generally ranging from six to 12 months, though it can be longer depending on the service center and the complexity of the case. Once the petition is approved, the next step depends on whether the applicant is inside or outside the U.S. If abroad, the applicant must go through consular processing, which involves additional time for scheduling and attending an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate? This can add several months to the process. If the applicant is already in the U.S., they may file Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Processing times for Form I-485 can vary but generally range from eight to 14 months. Employment-based Green Cards follow a somewhat similar initial process. The employer files Form I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, which can take 6 to 9 months to process. However, this timeline can be affected by the need for Labor Certification, which must be obtained before filing the I-140 and can add several months. Once the I-140 is approved, applicants in the U.S. can file Form I-485. For those outside the U.S., the process involves consular processing, similar to family-based cases, and can take additional time. For other categories like refugee or asylum-based Green Cards, applicants typically need to wait one year after their initial status is granted before they can apply. The processing time for these applications often aligns with the timelines for Form I-485, ranging from eight to 14 months.

It is important to note that law firm of marcelle poirier processing times can fluctuate based on factors such as changes in immigration policy, staffing levels at USCIS, and the applicant’s specific case details. Applicants can check current processing times on the USCIS website or consult an immigration attorney for more personalized information. Overall, while the total time to get a Green Card can range from about one year to several years, depending on the pathway and individual circumstances, staying informed and prepared throughout the process can help ensure a smoother experience.